Holiday traffic causes some of the worst disruptions on the road and, this year, it is likely to be worse than ever, says Green Flag Motoring Assistance.

Spokesman Nigel Charlesworth said: "Last year, the restrictions caused by foot and mouth meant traffic was lighter, but even so, we still received almost 37,000 calls for help. We're gearing up for much higher this year."

A survey by the English Tourism Council shows a fifth of UK residents have switched from holidaying abroad to taking their breaks in the UK, following September 11.